Casualties unknown

Pilot Strikes Ground After Clearing Second Set of Power Lines During Low Pass (N2031J)

New Deal, TX, US

On October 3, 1993, a Cessna T188C (registration N2031J) was involved in an aviation accident near New Deal, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN GROUND CLEARANCE WHILE AVOIDING A POWERLINE. FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO SEE A SECOND SET OF POWER LINES PRIOR TO INITIATING THE SPRAYING RUN WAS ALSO A CAUSE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a low pass over a field, a pilot successfully cleared a second set of 30-foot power lines but subsequently struck the ground. The support poles for the second lines were obscured.

Accident Details

The pilot reported that he intended to make his first pass from south to north over a set of power lines located at the south end of the field. He initiated the pass by diving into the field over those lines. While executing the maneuver, he noticed a second set of power lines, 30 feet high and situated 291 feet north of the first set.

Sequence of Events

The pilot successfully maneuvered under the second set of lines. However, shortly after clearing them, the airplane struck the ground. The support poles for the second set of power lines were obscured, according to the pilot's account.

Investigation Status

The investigation did not provide a determined probable cause for the accident. The source does not specify any injuries, aircraft type, registration, or other details commonly found in accident reports.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13556. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.